Many Americans are fed up with the cost of their health plan. In 2023, healthcare premiums were nearly $8,435 per year for most plans, a 7% increase from the previous year. Whether dealing with high-cost coverage at work or restrictive from a government-sponsored plan, you may be looking for a way to maintain health insurance without unnecessary costs. 

Private health insurance for individuals or families is an excellent alternative to these traditional health insurance options. With private insurance, you get health insurance coverage that meets your specific needs, such as low copays, extended networks and affordable prescription drugs.

The following guide to buying private health insurance can help you understand these plans and how to find and implement a policy that provides you with well-rounded coverage.

What is Private Health Insurance?

Private health insurance plans are a type of coverage that you buy on your own rather than through an employer or government program. Unlike employer-sponsored plans, where the company usually pays part of the costs, you pay for the policy yourself. This often gives you a wider range of plan options and more flexibility in terms of coverage, provider choices and open enrollment periods. 

Private insurance also differs from government programs or Healthcare.gov plans, which are subsidized by the federal government and often tailored for the elderly or low-income individuals. Private health insurance is available to anyone who can afford the premiums, offering additional benefits and coverage levels not found in Affordable Care Act plans.

How to Get Private Health Insurance

Obtaining an affordable private health insurance plan is simple, but you’ll need to take a few steps to find the right policy for your healthcare needs and life situation. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to find your ideal plan and start coverage:

1. Understand Your Needs

Understanding your needs is the first step in choosing the right private health insurance plan. Before exploring different options, assess what you specifically require from your coverage:

Health Conditions

• Consider any pre-existing conditions or regular medications like insulin or blood pressure meds.

Budget

• Determine how much you can afford to spend on premiums, keeping in mind potential out-of-pocket costs.

Preferred Doctors and Hospitals

• Take note of any doctors or hospitals you want to be covered; for instance, if you already work with a trusted specialist or clinic,  you’ll need to confirm coverage. 

Coverage Extent

• Decide if you need basic emergency coverage or more comprehensive preventive care plans.

Future Health Needs

• Anticipate possible health changes, like needing surgery, maternity care or physical therapy.

Special Requirements 

• Evaluate needs based on your occupation or lifestyle, such as frequent travel for truckers or small business insurance for the self-employed.

Explore Insurance Providers and Plans

Once you know what coverage you need, start looking for health insurance near you. Research the private insurance companies carefully. Ask about plan options, customer support services, and how they handle claims. If possible, ask for feedback from current customers. 

United National Healthcare offers affordable health insurance for small businesses, individuals and families. United National Healthcare private insurance plans include the following types and member benefits:

• Job-specific plans. Our specialized plans cater to professionals such as travel nurses, truck drivers and real estate agents. For instance, our travel nurses insurance offers medical services across different states, aligning with their mobile careers.

• Short term plans. Ideal for those in transition, such as individuals between jobs or newly graduated students waiting for employer benefits to start. Short term plans offer a temporary safety net for several months.

• Plans for individuals and families. From single adults to large families, our plans adjust to cover everything from routine check-ups and emergency services to maternity care and pediatric treatments, ensuring comprehensive care for all family members.

• Small business insurance. Designed for small enterprises, these plans help employers provide their teams with affordable, effective health benefits, boosting employee satisfaction and retention.

• Special enrollment periods. If you’re wondering, “Can I buy private health insurance at any time?” We offer special enrollment periods for life events such as marriage, birth or losing other coverage, allowing you to enroll outside the standard period.

• Potential tax credits. Eligible individuals and families might benefit from tax credits and deductions that lower the cost of purchasing your own plan. This includes IRS deductions for premiums, self-employed health insurance and medical expenses within a certain income threshold. 

Narrow Your Choice and Apply for Coverage

After reviewing your private health insurance options, narrow down your choices and apply for coverage. At United National Healthcare, our team is ready to guide you through every application process step, ensuring it’s as smooth and straightforward as possible. 

We’ll answer all your questions, clarify the specifics of your plan and assist you with the paperwork. Once enrolled, enjoy the peace of mind of knowing you and your loved ones or employees are fully covered and can access the necessary healthcare when needed.

Get Tailored Private Health Insurance from United National Healthcare

Find the private health insurance plan that works for your healthcare needs and life situation at United National Healthcare. We believe everyone should have access to affordable care — we offer plans in states across the U.S. to ensure you can find a plan near you. 

Talk to one of our specialists today to discuss plan options and get a quote for your private health insurance plan.